Mandy Oreyo at KK's Castle

Hello, my name is Mandy Oreyo.

When I was eight years old God told me that I would be a Children's Pastor. Fast-forward to today, I have been the Kid’s Pastor at my church going on 7 years. Most of my adult life I have been working with kids. From overseeing a class in a local daycare to now cutting their hair‒ I have always loved the unlimited joy and curiosity of children. Over time, my heart has gone out to the ones who get in trouble a lot; the ones who get angry and don't know how to control their emotions; the ones who suddenly break down at seemingly little problems; the ones that people have a hard time understanding. It might be because I was once one of these so-called “problem children.”

It wasn’t until I was an adult that I was finally diagnosed with Autism. As a child, I never understood why my feelings were so big or why people would say that I was being disrespectful even though I wasn't trying to be. Now that I have a little more insight into what it means to be Autistic, I'm so happy to have the opportunity to work at KK’s Castle with children who have similar struggles. I am blessed to be able to show them love, patience and care as I try to make an uncomfortable or even scary experience more peaceful for them and their families.

I am glad to do this‒ it brings me great joy!

In recent months however, it has become more and more clear that I have a severe disability. Overwhelming weakness in my muscles has made it increasingly difficult for me to work at the job that I love. From diet to exercise to supplements, I have done all I can to find a solution. But it has come to the point that I cannot hope to continue in the state that I am in right now. By prayer and counseling, and with a heavy heart, I have determined to take time off from working at KK’s Castle to seek respite and strength.

I have been told that a neurologist could help; however, being self-employed, I don’t have any insurance, and I am not sure what the costs of this would be. I share all of this not for the sake of pity (I know that my God will take care of me one way or another), but I want you to know how much I love working with the people at KK’s Castle. I want to continue to be there for them‒ to offer the hope and comfort that other conventional salons simply can’t‒ but physically I don't think I will be able to continue to do that.

I know that what we have done here at KK’s Castle has great importance to many people. That said, I don't want to ask of you anything that you are not happy to do. The Bible says that no one should give out of reluctance or compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7). So if you don’t want to or you don’t feel like you have a choice, please don't give anything‒ it will be ok. KK’s Castle is not closing, and Kayla will continue to operate even in my absence. But if you feel so moved, or if you just genuinely want to, I've made this as an opportunity to do so. 100% of any money raised will be going towards my daily cost of living during my time off and medical expenses.

I want to thank you for all your love and well wishes. Please know that my heart is with you and your families as I seek to heal.

Love,

Mandy

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.” Philippians 4:19-20